Study Strategy
How to Track CPA Exam Progress With a Study Dashboard
By SimplyCPA · 11 October 2026
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On this page (5)
- Track six numbers: Study hours, blueprint coverage, first-attempt MCQ accuracy by topic, simulation accuracy, mock exam result and days to exam.
- Coverage beats hours: 100% of topics studied at least once before the final review phase.
- Accuracy thresholds: Aim for roughly 70–75%+ first-attempt accuracy per topic, with no heavily weighted topic far below.
- Act weekly: Each week, pick the two weakest heavily weighted topics and fix them.
- Keep it simple: A spreadsheet or SimplyCPA's dashboard is enough — the habit matters more than the tool.
What to track
| Metric | Why it matters | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Hours studied (by topic) | Shows whether you're on pace | Your weekly plan, e.g. 12–15 hours |
| Blueprint coverage | Gaps cost marks | 100% of topics before final review |
| First-attempt MCQ accuracy | True measure of understanding | About 70–75%+ per topic |
| Simulation accuracy | Half the score in most sections | Improving trend; no topic without a TBS attempted |
| Mock exam result | Stamina and timing | Completed on time with no testlet rushed |
| Days to exam | Keeps the plan honest | Review phase starts 14 days out |
A simple dashboard layout
| Topic | Blueprint area | Hours | Studied? | MCQ accuracy | TBS done | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leases | Select transactions | 9 | Yes | 64% | 2 | Redo schedules |
| Revenue recognition | Select transactions | 10 | Yes | 78% | 3 | Maintain |
| Governmental funds | Financial reporting | 4 | Partly | 55% | 0 | Priority this week |
The weekly review (20 minutes)
- Update the numbers.
- Identify the two weakest topics in the most heavily weighted areas.
- Schedule specific sessions to fix them next week.
- Check that you're on pace for the exam date — adjust early, and remember that rescheduling is only free 61+ days ahead.
Using SimplyCPA
Your SimplyCPA dashboard records topics you've marked complete, your practice sessions and bookmarked questions — a ready-made starting point for this tracking.